Your greatest tool as a speaker is your voice
If you want to communicate effectively and have a positive impact on your audience, you have to pay special attention to your speaking voice. When you speak, your voice is the most important link between you and your listeners. Your voice is the medium of your message.
When you speak, your voice reflects your psychological and emotional state of mind. You cannot hope to persuade or influence others, or even get them to listen in a positive way, if your tones are rigid and unfriendly. In fact, such a voice can drive back even the speaker who wishes to attract. The quality of friendliness is a requirement for a good speaking voice.
Play with your voice to be more effective
To maximize your effectiveness, you must vary the volume of your voice. First of all open your speech by using a bit louder voice volume than average. This will give you the opportunity to grab attention and show enthusiasm to your audience. Then, during the speech, remember to gradually diminish the end of sentences. In fact, this will allow the audience to hear even the last word or two at the end of sentences, increasing your impact on the audience.
The voice is the key for personal success
A good, controlled voice is an asset in every contact with others. Your voice reflects your personality. A natural voice which projects cordiality, cultivation, and authority is a significant tool for personal success. It can help in gaining promotions, making sales, winning the respect of others, and improving your social opportunities, as well as in speaking effectively to audiences.
Keep in mind
Listen to yourself on tape. Does your voice sound harsh, breathy, shrill, thin, or nasal? You can improve it by relaxing, eliminating any tension from your voice. It is largely a matter of habit. Your voice should convey friendliness, naturalness, and confidence, and be enjoyable and pleasant to the ears.
